XLIF® Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion

What Is XLIF Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion?

XLIF® Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion is an innovative lower back surgery that uses smaller incisions than more traditional spinal surgery. These two incisions are located on the side of the patient and not directly above or around the spinal column. This technique allows our world-class spine surgeons to access the damaged disc while avoiding damaging major back muscles.

In order to access the spine, a probe and a fluoroscopic X-ray machine are used to find and avoid any nerves, as well as locate the correct disc that needs to be removed. Dilation tubes and a retractor are then inserted in order to give your neurosurgeon a channel to the spine. From this channel, the damaged disc can be removed and an implant with a bone graft can be inserted into the empty disc space.

This bone graft implant realigns the spinal bones in conjunction with lifting pressure from any pinched nerves. Eventually, the bone graft material will grow out and around the implant and fuse the vertebrae together. This will ensure continual relief from your lower back pain.